What You Need To Know About Teeth Whitening

Teeth Whitening Options And Safety

Teeth whitening is an incredibly popular procedure these days and has become a very popular cosmetic dentistry option, with dozens of companies offering a dazzling variety of do-it-yourself whiteners and bleaches that people can use in their own homes. The belief that whiter teeth communicate youth and attractiveness is deeply ingrained in our psyche and causes some people to try any new product that comes on the market in pursuit of brighter, shinier teeth. But, is it safe to go it alone and use over the counter products to attempt to whiten one’s own teeth?

Perhaps the most popular tooth whitening option on the market today is the ubiquitous whitening toothpaste. Although they have become quite commonplace, they have been criticized for being abrasive and wearing away the enamel of the user’s teeth. Furthermore, the hydrogen peroxide which is often used as a bleaching agent in these toothpastes is now thought to be both responsible for weakening teeth and possibly carcinogenic.

Aside from toothpastes, home-use tooth bleaching kits are another popular option for those in pursuit of stain-free teeth. These kits are comprised of trays which the user fills with hydrogen peroxide and wears at night for a length of up to two weeks. Although such kits claim to be able to dramatically whiten teeth the risks associated with the in-home use of hydrogen peroxide over such a long period of time cannot be overstated and people should consider whether or not it is worth it in the long run.

So, are there any safe options for tooth whitening? It may come as no surprise that tooth whitening is best done by the professionals but it needs to be said in a market flooded with DIY products. At Castle Rock Family Dental, we know how to correctly use tooth whiteners and bleaches to prevent damage and over-exposure to potentially carcinogenic chemicals. We also have the facilities to ensure that all procedures are carried out safely, hygienically and effectively—something that cannot be said for an OTC kit you use in your bathroom before going to bed. In fact, when done by a dentist, even a hydrogen peroxide bleaching can be safe because the chemical only comes into contact with tooth enamel, which is not a living tissue. In addition to chemical bleaching we can also offer you the option of laser whitening—an approach that you can get over the counter.

In short, tooth whitening can be a great way to improve your smile, but as with most things, you should leave it to the professionals to get the best results. 

Give us a call at 303-688-2229 or visit our website at http://castlerockfamilydental.com to schedule your appointment today!